Da Vinci Science

Some Highlights from the Week:

11th Grade Annual Griffith Observatory Field Trip! Congrats and great job to all award winners.

12th Grade Advanced Physics presenting Westy’s World projects

Folklorico Club did an amazing job dancing and hosting the “Posada” tonight, with a special guest from Santa!

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Week 16 Schedule

Posted on December 6, 2024 by Grace Long

We have two more weeks left of the semester! Students returned from break rested and refreshed and seemed ready to make the final push to the end of the semester. We also had our last week of seminars for Semester 1. Thank you, staff and students, for a fun and meaningful semester of seminars. Seminars provide students with varied learning opportunities and engagement with activities beyond core academic subject areas. We look forward to next semester’s seminar choices.

We also had a nice DVS Family Coffee Time this past Wednesday with the topic of Mastery Based Grading, Canvas, and PowerSchool. If you missed this month’s coffee, we hope to see you at the next Parent Association social gathering on Dec. 11th and/or the next DVS Families Coffee on Jan. 17th.

This week and next will be busy with end-of-semester assignments, projects, assessments, finals, and POL planning. We will then head into POL week to end the semester on Dec. 19th. We encourage students to continue doing their best to finish the semester well.

Week 16 Announcements:

Presentations of Learning: Presentations of Learning (POLs) for our 9th-11th grade students will be 12/16-12/19 (Week 17), while 12th grade students will be taking finals. Click here for an information sheet for families with details about presentations of learning. We encourage 9th, 10th, and 11th parents and guardians to attend your student’s POL
Math Tutoring: There will be free peer math tutoring Monday-Thursday at lunch this week in the Math Hub. Tutoring in all subjects is also available after school with our Academic Coaches every Monday-Thursday after school.
DVS Parent Association will have our Wednesday, December 11th meeting/social at Five Point Five Brewing Co, 137 Nevada St. in El Segundo, from 7 – 8:30pm. Come join and connect with other DVS parents as we celebrate the season and share ideas to celebrate our Advisories. Feel free to come and go as you need at this open house style gathering.
- If you are interested in being a part of the parent association, please see this Parent Advisory Email for more information and sign-ups. Parent Association is still looking for at least two parent representatives from each Advisory- this could be you!
Da Vinci Science Parents Facebook Group: Join this family-facilitated Facebook group by searching “Da Vinci Science Parents” and look for a green This is Home banner to join.
Free Executive Functioning Webinar: All Da Vinci parents/guardians and staff are invited to Whole Human Wellness’s Executive Functioning Webinar on Tuesday, December 10th from 6:30pm-7:30pm. This webinar is created for parents of pre teens, teens, and young adults, and is hosted by Nikki Wendel, who is the Whole Human Wellness Educational Consultant. You can read more about Nikki’s services here. RSVP at this link. We hope to see you all there!

FAFSA Friday Workshop Series for Senior Families are held on the DV Communications (DVC) floor in Room 3203 and is open to all Da Vinci Schools senior families. Participants should register here for ONE of the following dates as all workshops will cover the same material. See more information on this post on our blog. The next FAFSA info. Night will be:
- Friday, January 17th, 2025 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- Friday, February 7th, 2025 (6-7:30 p.m.)
DV Performing Arts Program:
- WDVPA Seminar Night: Come celebrate with all of our Performing Arts seminar classes as they put on their final end-of-semester showcases to highlight everything they have been working on since September. Drum Ensemble, Stagecraft, Music Production, and Acting (Stage and On-Camera) will be in the Blackbox on Tue, 12/10 at 6pm. Admission is FREE—with a $5 suggested donation.
- Studio Orchestra Winter Concert: Join us for a winter celebration of instrumental music, featuring student Bands, WDV Studio Orchestra, and WUSD Symphonic Band! The Studio Orchestra WInter Concert will take place in the Blackbox on Wed, 12/11 at 6pm. Admission is FREE—with a $5 suggested donation.
- WDVPA Winter Showcase: You are invited to the Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts Winter Showcase, a heartwarming evening of music and theatre featuring performances by the TK-8 Choir and Theatre groups, the Voices of Da Vinci Choir, and the high school Musical Theatre cast of “GREASE”. The WDVPA Winter Showcase will take place at the El Segundo Performing Arts Center on Fri, 12/13 at 6:30pm. Admission is FREE—with a $5 suggested donation.

Week 16 Schedule:

Important Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, 12/11 DVS Parent Association Meeting/Social @ 7:00 pm at Five Point Brewery
Friday, 12/13 11th Grade Griffith Park & Observatory Field Trip
Monday-Friday, 12/16-12/19 Presentations of Learning / Senior Finals
Thursday, 12/19 Last Day of Semester 1 & Community Dialogue
Monday, 1/16 Semester 2 begins

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

ESPN (El Segundo Physics Network) Science of Sports Exhibition! Students did an excellent job presenting the physics behind their favorite sports!

ASL Seminar finished with students signing along to Christmas songs in ASL!

10th grade college visits to CSULB, Cal State Dominguez Hills, and Cal Poly Pomona. Students were guided by DVS Alumni who are now successfully attending those colleges!

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Week 15 Schedule

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Grace Long

Happy Thanksgiving! We had an eventful and full week of learning, safety, fun, and gratitude. We love and appreciate all the thoughtfulness, generosity, and time that went into gifting DVS staff with beautiful gratitude baskets. Thank you to our DVS Parent Association for organizing these beautiful baskets. Thank you to our Parent Advisory Council for meeting this week and providing valuable feedback for our school. When our staff is asked why they love working here, the response is the joy of getting to know your students and having them in class every day. Thank you for all of your support and trust in our DVS staff!

On behalf of the DVS Staff, we wish all of our students and families a Happy Thanksgiving!

Announcements & Reminders for Week 15:

DVS Front Office Holiday Hours: DVS office will be open on Monday, 11/25 and Tuesday, 11/26 from 9:00am-12:00pm by phone.
Presentations of Learning: Presentations of Learning (POLs) for our 9th-11th grade students will be 12/16-12/19 (Week 17), while 12th grade students will be taking finals. All POLs and senior finals will be scheduled between Monday 12/16 and Thursday 12/19. Specific information about the format, requirements, and preparation process for POLs and finals will continue to be shared to students via Canvas, during Targeted Support, and in individual classes. Click here for an information sheet for families with details about presentations of learning. We encourage 9th, 10th, and 11th parents and guardians to attend your student’s POL.
DVS Parent Association: The DVS Parent Association is still looking to grow its parent community. We are looking for at least two parents from Advisory. If you want to participate in the parent association, please see this Parent Advisory Email for more information and sign-ups. Once again, thank you for your engagement and support!

Da Vinci Science Parents Facebook Group: The Da Vinci Science parent/guardian group on Facebook is meant for current Da Vinci Science parents/guardians to connect, ask questions, and build community with each other. Please note that this is a family-facilitated group, and anything posted is not directly sponsored by DVS or its staff. Search “Da Vinci Science Parents” and look for a green This is Home banner to join.

FAFSA Friday Workshop Series for Senior Families: Da Vinci Schools is excited to offer practical, hands-on FAFSA workshops to our senior families. See more information about the workshop in this post on our blog. This will be held on the DV Communications (DVC) floor in Room 3203 and is open to all Da Vinci Schools senior families. Participants should register here for ONE of the following dates as all workshops will cover the same material.
- Friday, November 22nd, 2024 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- Friday, December 6th, 2024 (6-7:30 p.m.) *Ayuda en Español*
- Friday, January 17th, 2025 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- Friday, February 7th, 2025 (6-7:30 p.m.)
Da Vinci Schools Fall Surveys: Parents/guardians and students should have received an email from Kelvin Education with a survey link to provide feedback. We appreciate your time and value your feedback. Parent surveys will close 12/6
DV Performing Arts Program Announcements:
- The Da Vinci Schools Song Contest: Submissions close 12/1, winners announced on 12/15. Please click here for submissions and full contest rules + regulations.
- The “Voices of Da Vinci” Choir present: “Fam Jam”: Join the “Voices of Da Vinci” Choir for their first-ever winter concert: “Fam Jam” in the Blackbox on Thu, 12/5 at 6pm. Admission is FREE—with a $5 suggested donation.
- Studio Orchestra Winter Concert: Please join us for a winter celebration of instrumental music, featuring student Bands, WDV Studio Orchestra, and WUSD Symphonic Band! The Studio Orchestra Winter Concert will take place in the Blackbox on Wed, 12/11, at 6pm. Admission is FREE—with a $5 suggested donation.
- WDVPA Winter Showcase: You are invited to the Wiseburn Da Vinci Performing Arts Winter Showcase, a heartwarming evening of music and theatre featuring performances by the TK-8 Choir and Theatre groups, the Voices of Da Vinci Choir, and the high school Musical Theatre cast of “GREASE”. The WDVPA Winter Showcase will occur at the El Segundo Performing Arts Center on Fri, 12/13 at 6:30pm. Admission is FREE—with a $5 suggested donation.
Family Communication Workshop Resources: Thank you to the families who attended the first Family Communication Workshop run by therapists from Whole Human Wellness this week! Even if you could not attend, Whole Human Wellness is graciously sharing these helpful tips and information discussed in the workshop with the Da Vinci community: Parent Resources & Tips (Spanish version), Teen Reflection Activity. Stay tuned-More workshops are in the works for second semester!

Week 15 Schedule (12/2-12/6):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Monday – Friday, 11/25 – 11/29 Thanksgiving Break
Monday, 12/02 10th Grade College Field Trip
Wednesday, 12/04 DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:15 in-person or on Zoom
Friday, 12/06 FAFSA Fridays Workshop Series #2 @ 6pm in DVC Room 3203
Wednesday, 12/11 DVS Parent Association Meeting/Social @ 5:30pm
Friday, 12/13 11th Grade Griffith Park & Observatory Field Trip
Monday-Friday, 12/16-12/19 Presentations of Learning / Senior Finals
Thursday, 12/19 Last Day of Semester 1 & Community Dialogue

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

Advisory Fun! Candy Sushi, Mafia, Pringles Challenge, and Gratitude Pumpkins

We are so proud of DV’s Youth & Government. They did a great job at their 9th annual Bill Hearing Night. Each delegate represented their bill articulately and eloquently.

We are looking forward to improved Healthcare legislation led by our Y&G delegates.

: Thank you, DVS Parent Association!

: Gratitude baskets for Grounds Crew

: BSU Friendsgiving

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Week 14 Schedule

Posted on November 15, 2024 by Grace Long

We are thankful for all of our DVS students and families. There has been a positive spirit of gratitude around our campus. During Advisory this week, students decorated our campus with Gratitude Leaves, where they wrote down things for which they were grateful. Many students shared that they are thankful for their families and friends and for DVS being their school.

The DVS Parent Association also met on Zoom this week. It was lovely to see some new faces and meet more parents. We look forward to getting to know our parents as well and are looking to increase and connect the parent community.

Next week is a regular scheduled week. We hope students can continue working diligently and enjoy the upcoming Thanksgiving Break!

Announcements & Reminders for Week 14:

Attendance Matters: As Thanksgiving Break and the end of the semester approaches, we are grateful to our families, students, and staff who support and emphasize the importance of daily school attendance. Every day of school is an important opportunity for students to learn as well as connect with their peers and teachers. Please continue to take steps to schedule vacations and appointments around school hours. Please continue to send your students to school unless they are truly sick. Daily routines are essential for reducing stress and creating a sense of security for students and adults. If your family or your child needs support, please reach out to your child’s counselor.

DVS Parent Association Announcements:
- The parent association is growing! We’re moving toward our goal of having 2 parents from each Advisory be active with our planning group. Want to join other DVS parents to support our DVS students and community? Sign In here: DVSpa SIGN IN 2024-25. Our upcoming projects include Fundraising for Advisories and a brand new event, DVS Family Community Night tentatively scheduled in March. We need your unique skills and talents as we work together to bring these projects to our school community. Slides from our DVSpa meeting this week can be viewed at this link.
- Da Vinci Science Parents Facebook Group: The DVS Parent Association would like to invite you to join the newly launched Da Vinci Science parent/guardian group on Facebook! This online space is meant for current Da Vinci Science parents/guardians to connect, ask questions, and build community with each other. Please note that this is a family-facilitated group, and anything posted is not directly sponsored by DVS or its staff. Search “Da Vinci Science Parents” and look for a green This is Home banner to join.
- Gratitude Baskets for Teachers and Staff: Next week is the time to bring in cards and Staff Favorite Things for your DVS Teachers and Staff Gratitude Baskets. Cards and items can be dropped off at the front office through Fri 11/22 at 9 am. If you’d prefer to donate a gift card to help fill all the baskets, you can send them to dvsappreciation@gmail.com by Tues 11/19, 11pm and your name will be added to the group card. Have some time 11/18 – 11/22 to help with assembling the baskets? Assemble Sign Up HERE

Shelter-in-Place & Evacuation Drill: The Da Vinci high schools at the 201 N. Douglas location (including DVS) will participate in a Shelter-in-Place & Evacuation Drill on Tuesday, November 19th. Shelter-in-Place drills are designed to educate students and staff and provide practice opportunities for what to initially do in an on-campus or nearby emergency that requires a lockdown. Drill expectations and procedures were reviewed during announcements this week.

Da Vinci Schools Fall Surveys: Parents/guardians and students should have received an email from Kelvin Education with a survey link to provide feedback. We appreciate your time and value your feedback.
FAFSA Friday Workshop Series for Senior Families: Da Vinci Schools is excited to offer practical, hands-on FAFSA workshops to our senior families. See more information about the workshop on this post on our blog. This will be held on the DV Communications (DVC) floor in Room 3203 and is open to all Da Vinci Schools senior families. Participants should register here for ONE of the following dates as all workshops will cover the same material.
- Friday, November 22nd, 2024 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- Friday, December 6th, 2024 (6-7:30 p.m.) *Ayuda en Español*
- Friday, January 17th, 2025 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- Friday, February 7th, 2025 (6-7:30 p.m.)
Communication Workshop: DVS, in partnership with Whole Human Wellness Therapy, is excited to present a family communication workshop designed to help participants connect more deeply with themselves and their family members. This workshop is open to all Da Vinci high school students, families, and staff and will take place on the Da Vinci Science floor (2nd floor, 201 N. Douglas Street) this Tuesday, November 19th, 2024, from 5:30 pm-7:00 pm. FREE Raising Canes and fun activities will be provided. Please RSVP at this link.

All WDV HS Open Mic: Join us for WDV’s fall Open Mic open to students from ALL WDV high schools Tue, 11/19 at 4pm in the ATRIUM at the 201 N. Douglas St. campus! Here is the link to sign up.

Cardiac Screening Health Promotion Event: Da Vinci Schools in partnership with Saving Hearts Foundation and UCLA presents a FREE cardiac screening event Saturday, November 16, 2024. Pre-register now at this link!

The Da Vinci Schools Song Contest: Submissions close 12/1, winners announced on 12/15. Please click here for submissions and full contest rules + regulations.
DVS Parent Advisory Committee: It is not too late to join! Our PAC meeting #2 of this year is this Wednesday, 11/20, from 4:15-5:15 at this Zoom link. Parent Advisory Committee is an opportunity for parents, students, and staff to work collaboratively to review the school program, review data, identify needs, and make recommendations for the Local Control and Accountability Plan. If you are interested in joining our DVS Parent Advisory Committee, please complete the Parent Advisory Committee Interest Form or reach out to Grace: glong@davincischools.org. PAC Meeting Dates are planned for Wednesdays on Zoom from 4:15-5:15pm on these dates: 11/20, 2/12, 3/26, 5/14.

Week 14 Schedule (11/18-11/22):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Monday – Friday, 11/18 – 11/22 9th Grade CHYA Presentations in Physics
Tuesday, 11/19 Whole Human Wellness Communication Workshop @ 5:30pm
Wednesday, 11/20 DVS Parent Advisory Committee Meeting @ 4:15 on Zoom
Friday, 11/22 FAFSA Fridays Workshop Series #1 @ 6pm in DVC Room 3203
Monday – Friday, 11/25 – 11/29 Thanksgiving Break
Monday, 12/02 10th Grade College Field Trip
Wednesday, 12/04 DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:15 in-person or on Zoom

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

Computer Integrated Manufacturing Class, students are building their projects using Biomimicry. Students in Principles of Bio. Med. are learning to take vital signs.

Ms.McBee and 12th grade Government class held their annual Senior Elections. Students engaged in thoughtful, fun, and friendly debates to practice democracy in action!

Congratulations to students in grades 11 and 12 who were nationally recognized by the College Board for their performance on the PSAT last year (Fall 2023).

National Merit Scholarship Commended Students: Morgan Adams, Christian Ramos

National Recognition Program: Daryn Bonner, Gabriel Brown, GabrielChavez, Austin Chang, Harrison Kim, Jadon Long, Rania Abdella, Sarah Nelson, and Theodore Lumpkin

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Week 13 Schedule

Posted on November 8, 2024 by Grace Long

We hope all students had a great CLD Day#2. Students on campus attended various workshops on self-defense, community service, and financial literacy. Students off-campus engaged in learning activities such as working on personal projects, college visits, and studying for upcoming exams. We hope all students had a productive learning day. Please note that whether students were on or off campus today, all students must fill out this Community Learning Day Attendance Form to receive attendance credit. Students who do not fill out the attendance form will be marked absent.

DVS students also had a blast on Thursday with our second annual DaVincella. Seeing the whole school together, having fun, and supporting one another was joyous. We had various clubs represented, students shared their talents in folklorio, singing, rock and metal band performances. We have some very talented students!

Happy Veterans Day! We honor and are grateful to all who have served in the U.S. military. There is no school Monday, November 11th. We wish everyone a great three-day weekend.

Announcements & Reminders for Week 13:

Progress Reports: Grades were updated this week. Progress reports were printed and mailed home, so please check your mailboxes in the next week or so. There are 5 weeks left of instruction for this semester. All coursework and grading information will continue to be through Canvas at https://davincischools.instructure.com.

Da Vinci Schools Fall Surveys: We value your feedback! Parents/guardians and students should have received an email from Kelvin Education with a survey link to provide feedback. Thank you for taking the time to provide this valuable feedback.

DVS Parent Association (DVSpa) would love to see you at our next meeting this coming Wed, 11/13 at 5:30pm on Zoom. We’ll be discussing fundraiser ideas for Advisories as well as a brand new Family Community Day we’re planning for March. We are ALSO handing out Gratitude Baskets to staff on 11/22. Please take a moment to write a note of thanks, bring in staff favorite things, or donate funds for these much loved baskets at dvsappreciation@gmail.com. We also need volunteers to help organize and fill them the week of 11/18 – 11/22. Sign up HERE.
SAT/PSAT Score Reports were released this week on November 7th. Students should have received instructions on accessing their scores from College Board if they listed an email for score reporting. If not, scores can be accessed through your College Board account at this link. PDF of score reports will also be mailed home with progress reports. Here are some resources to help understand scores:
Communication Workshop: Join us for a Communication Workshop complete with FREE Raising Canes and activities! DVS, in partnership with Whole Human Wellness Therapy, is excited to present a family communication workshop designed to help participants connect more deeply with themselves and their family members. This workshop is open to all Da Vinci high school students, families, and staff and will take place on the Da Vinci Science floor (2nd floor, 201 N. Douglas Street) on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 from 5:30pm-7:00pm. Free food and fun activities will be provided. If possible, please RSVP at this link.

All WDV HS Open Mic: Join us for WDV’s fall Open Mic open to students from ALL WDV high schools Tue, 11/19 at 4pm in the ATRIUM at the 201 N. Douglas St. campus! WDV open mics aim to be a safe space for new and beginning performers to perform in front of a welcoming audience—but all experience levels are welcome! Refreshments will be provided, plus: all performers will be entered into a raffle to win a FREE pair of headphones! Here is the link to sign up, and we hope to see you there!

Cardiac Screening Health Promotion Event: Da Vinci Schools in partnership with Saving Hearts Foundation and UCLA presents a FREE cardiac screening event Saturday, November 16, 2024. Come get an EKG, see a cardiologist on the spot if any abnormalities are detected for immediate follow up. Pre-register now at this link! Walk-ins welcome, those with appointments seen first!

The Da Vinci Schools Song Contest: Submissions close 12/1, winners announced on 12/15. Please click here for submissions and full contest rules + regulations.
Honors Enrollment: Students who submitted their Honors Contracts on time and committed to pursuing honors have been enrolled in the corresponding honors course on PowerSchool. Please note that honors courses on PowerSchool will not have a grade until the end of the semester. Until then, please refer to the original course for students’ current grades.

Week 13 College Rep Visit: On Tuesday, November 12th, we welcome Woodbury University to DVS. This is the last college rep visit for the semester. This meeting will be in Mr. Perez’s Room during lunchtime. Students from all grade levels (9-12) are welcome!

Week 13 Schedule (11/11-11/15):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Monday, 11/11 Veterans Day – No School
Tuesday, 11/12 AMC Math Competition
Wednesday, 11/13 DVS Parent Association Meeting @ 5:40pm on Zoom
Monday – Friday, 11/18 – 11/22 9th Grade CHYA Presentations in Physics
Wednesday, 11/20 DVS Parent Advisory Committee Meeting @ 4:15 on Zoom
Monday – Friday, 11/25 – 11/29 Thanksgiving Break
Monday, 12/02 10th Grade College Field Trip
Wednesday, 12/04 DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:15 in-person or on Zoom

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

Students in SWE and Robotics had an opportunity to visit AltaSea- Students got to see 3D concrete printers being used for offshore anchoring systems, kelp research, and eco-waste surfboards

Students had a blast at DaVincella!

HBS students modeling the flow of ions in a neuron during an action potential

CLD Day- Self-Defense Class

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Week 12 Schedule

Posted on November 1, 2024 by Grace Long

What a fun week full of Spirit! Staff and students enjoyed being creative with their outfits and costumes to show during this week’s Spirit Week. We hope students enjoyed the day after Halloween and had a restful PD day. DVS Staff had a productive professional development day learning about how our strengths can be utilized to leverage strengths in all of our students.

Tonight is our Da Vinci Masquerade Ball Dance, we are looking forward to a fun and safe time! Tickets have been pre-purchased, however, permission slips and tickets are still available at the door. The dance begins at 6:00 tonight.

Next week is another 4-day schedule due to CLD Day #2.

Announcements & Reminders for Week 12:

Community Learning Day #2: Friday, November 8th is our 2nd CLD! Here is the list of workshops offered on CLD #2. Students submitted their workshop request through this CLD #2 Survey last week. ALL students (whether you are on campus or at home) must fill out this Community Learning Day Attendance Form to receive attendance credit.

DVS Family Coffee Time: This month’s DVS Families Coffee Time will be held on Wednesday, November 6th, from 4:15-5:15. Join us in-person at DVS or use this Zoom link.

Week 12 College Rep Visits: All meetings will be in Mr. Perez’s Room during lunchtime. Students from all grade levels (9-12) are welcome!

- - Monday, November 4th: Santa Monica College
  - Tuesday, November 5th: Portland State University

Da Vinci Schools Fall Surveys: We value your voice and input. Parents/guardians and students, you should receive an email from Kelvin Education during the first week of November with a survey link to provide feedback. Please look in your inbox for “Kelvin Education” to fill out the survey. Students will see a dog icon pop up on their DV Google accounts in the Chrome browser when the surveys are ready to be taken. Thank you for taking the time to provide this valuable feedback.

DVS Parent Association Gratitude Baskets: As we approach the heartwarming season of Thanksgiving, the DVS Parent Association is excited to continue the tradition of organizing Thanksgiving Gratitude Baskets which will be delivered to our wonderful staff. Each basket will be thoughtfully filled with items our staff love, alongside heartfelt words of appreciation from our DVS community. Here’s how you can get involved:

- - Donate items inspired by our staff’s favorite things. Drop these off at the DVS front office.
  - Monetary contributions – Cash can be dropped off to the front office or gift cards can be emailed to dvsappreciation@gmail.com between now and November 19th.
  - Craft handwritten notes of thanks and encouragement for our staff. You can drop these notes off at the front office.
  - Keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities to sign up to assist in assembling the baskets.

Cardiac Screening Health Promotion Event: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. While often linked to chronic medical conditions, SCA alarmingly stands as the leading cause of death among athletes and on school campuses. 1 in 300 young individuals harbors an undetected heart condition, significantly heightening their risk of SCA. Da Vinci Schools in partnership with Saving Hearts Foundation and UCLA presents a FREE cardiac screening event Saturday, November 16, 2024. Come get an EKG, see a cardiologist on the spot if any abnormalities are detected for immediate follow up. Pre-register now at this link! Walk-ins welcome, those with appointments seen first!

The Da Vinci Schools Song Contest: Calling all songwriters, lyricists, musicians, and producers for the first-ever “Da Vinci Schools Song Contest!” We are looking for a song that embodies the spirit of the Da Vinci community, using original lyrics and music. Submissions close 12/1, winners announced on 12/15. Please click here for submissions and full contest rules + regulations.

Da Vinci is proud to serve as a Voting Center for the 2024 Election. The Hall of Champions corridor in the WDV Gym at 201. N. Douglas St. will be open for voting for the very first time starting Saturday, Nov. 2 through Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Week 12 Schedule (11/4-11/8):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, 11/6 DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:30pm on Zoom
Thursday, 11/7 DaVinchella during Advisory and after school 2:34-5:00pm
Friday, 11/8 Community Learning Day #2
Monday, 11/11 Veterans Day – No School
Tuesday, 11/12 AMC Math Competition
Wednesday, 11/13 DVS Parent Association Meeting @ 5:40pm on Zoom (link TBA)
Monday – Friday, 11/25 – 11/29 Thanksgiving Break

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

Last week, interested seniors visited Cal Poly San Luis Obisbo to learn more about what their potential major might look like in college

Fun Spirit Week!

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Week 11 Schedule

Posted on October 25, 2024 by Grace Long

We had another smooth week at DVS! Seniors started the week with college visits to UCI and Cal State Fullerton. They had a great time experiencing college life and visiting with DVS alumni.

This week was Red Ribbon Week with the theme, “Life is a Movie. Film Drug Free.” Students were given information and training to be drug-free and made drug-free pledges. Thank you, Mercy Health Group, for teaching all students about the importance of staying healthy and having a drug-free future.

Last week, Da Vinci’s Robotics Team participated in the Tidal Wave Pre-Season competition. Rookie and veteran team members did great and made it to the Semi-Finals! Team 4201 is looking forward to a fun and challenging year ahead. Go Vitruvian Bots!

We have a four-day week next week. No school this Friday, 11/1, due to Professional Development Day.

Announcements & Reminders for Week 11:

Spirit Week: Next week is DVS’s Fall 2024 Spirit Week! Students and staff are encouraged to show school spirit and join in the festivities following the theme of the day. Please note that the school dress code still applies during this week.
- Monday, 10/28: Meme Day
- Tuesday, 10/29: Dress to Impress Day
- Wednesday, 10/30: Tacky Tourist
- Thursday, 10/31: Halloween

Wellness Screener: In an effort to be more proactive in supporting students’ mental health, a wellness screener will be given on October 22nd and October 29th to all students during advisory at Da Vinci Science HS to identify students who may need support. Results from the screener will be used by the counselors to offer students interventions such as coping skills groups, counselor check ins, and referrals for therapy. Scores will not be shared with students or parents/guardians. Parent/guardian consent is required if a student is referred to receive counseling services delivered by Antioch or Pepperdine therapists. If you would like your student to OPT-OUT and NOT PARTICIPATE in the screener, please fill out this Opt-Out Form by Friday, October 18th.
Week 11 College Rep Visits: All College Rep. Visits occur on campus during lunchtime in the Galileo room. We encourage interested students to attend and learn more about the many excellent college options out there.
- Tuesday, 10/29 UC San Diego
- Wednesday, 10/30 Biola University

The Da Vinci Schools Song Contest: Calling all songwriters, lyricists, musicians, and producers for the first-ever “Da Vinci Schools Song Contest!” We are looking for a song that embodies the spirit of the Da Vinci community, using original lyrics and music. All genres are accepted, final submission can be a music demo quality and will be judged by a panel of three industry professionals. Winners will receive a professionally produced song and the opportunity for their song to be played at numerous school functions and events. Submissions close 12/1, winners announced on 12/15. Please click here for submissions and full contest rules + regulations.

Band Bash: Halloween Smash: Band Bash is BACK! Join all DV schools for the extra spooky, “Band Bash: Halloween Smash,” where five student bands will take the stage to play original music and get everyone in the Halloween spirit—costumes are encouraged! Food and snacks will also be provided by student leadership groups and available for purchase outside of the Black Box. “Band Bash: Halloween Smash” takes place on Halloween (10/31) from 4-6pm in the Black Box.

CLD Day: We hope everyone had a productive CLD day last month. The next CLD day is fast approaching! All students are required to sign up and indicate their plans for the next CLD Day, Friday, November 8th. The deadline to sign up is this Sunday, Oct. 27th. If you have not done so already, please do so now (even if your CLD plan is to do a stay at home/off campus learning day.
- 11/8 CLD Sign Up Link
- List of On-Campus 11/8 CLD Workshops.

Week 11 Schedule (10/28-11.1):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Monday – Thursday, 10/28 – 10/31 DVS Spirit Week
Friday, 11/1 PD Day – No School for students
Wednesday, 11/6 DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:30pm on Zoom
Thursday, 11/7 DaVincella during Adisory 2:34-3:55pm
Friday, 11/8 Community Learning Day #2
Monday, 11/11 Veterans Day – No School
Tuesday, 11/12 AMC Math Competition
Wednesday, 11/13 DVS Parent Association Meeting @ 5:40pm on Zoom (link TBA)
Monday – Friday, 11/25 – 11/29 Thanksgiving Break

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

College Visit to Cal State Fullerton

College Visit to UCI- Zot Zot!

Teletaubes at Tidal Tumble with Team 4201

Calculus students using motion detectors to graph their position and observe how motion affects the graph

Sophomores participating in Revolutionary Rountable project where they took on the role of a historical figure and analyzed modern examples of democracy

Posted in Uncategorized

Week 8 Schedule

Posted on October 3, 2024 by Grace Long

We hope all families have a wonderful, safe, and restful three-day weekend! It was great to see 12th-grade families at this week’s college planning workshop and at DVS Families Coffee time. We enjoy seeing our students and families and appreciate your support.

We also want to take the opportunity to acknowledge Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. While we celebrate Hispanic and Latino communities beyond this month from September 15 to October 15, we give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including advocacy work, beautiful art, popular and traditional foods, and much more.

We look forward to celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at our first Community Dialogue next week. The student leadership team has done an excellent job preparing for this celebratory event for our school; thank you, Leadership Team!

Announcements & Reminders for Week 8:

Freshmen Overnighter is happening this week! Hopefully, things continue to be positive for fire containment and the San Bernardino area. Camp Pondo confirmed that they are ready and expecting us next week. We are still planning for Tuesday-Wednesday, Oct. 8-9th. Overnighter Leaders will leave Monday10/7, and Freshmen Campers will leave Tuesday, 10/8. All students will return on Wednesday, 10/9. Information and permission slips have been given in class and posted in Canvas. Here is the link to Overnighter Permission Slip with revised dates. Please note that all school policies and expectations apply during the Overnighter. We look forward to spending this precious, formidable, and fun time with the Freshmen!
Student-Led Conferences SLC conference times were pushed out by Grade Level teachers. Please check your email if you have not received your SLC time.
- SLC Information for Families

SAT/PSAT School Day: The DVS SAT/PSAT School Day is on Monday, October 14th! All PSAT and SAT tests will be digitally administered. Practice resources were posted on Canvas.

- 9th Grade: PSAT 8/9
- 10th Grade: PSAT/NMSQT
- 11th Grade: PSAT/NMSQT
- 12th Grade: SAT (opt-in registration deadline has passed)
- Questions should be directed to Saya, DVS Assistant Principal (swai@davincischools.org). Remember that students can also register to take the SAT outside of the SAT School Day offered at DVS through the College Board at this website: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration.

Community Learning Days: Our first CLD Day is coming up Oct. 11th. This week, all students were given a new student survey to fill out. The survey asks students whether they plan to have their learning experience on campus or off campus. If students select the off-campus option, a CLD Off-Campus Permission Slip must be signed by a parent/guardian and turned in to the Advisory teacher (students were provided a copy of this permission slip during Advisory this week). All students will need to fill out an attendance form to receive attendance credit for that day.
College Rep Visits: El Camino College will be on campus Tuesday, October 8th during lunch time. We encourage students to come learn about community college, transferring to a 4-year university from a community college and the South Bay Promise Program, which offers FREE tuition at El Camino College for two years. This meeting will be held in Mr. Perez’s room during lunchtime and all grade levels are welcome.
Thank you to all students and families who attended their grade-level College Planning Information Session. Presentations are posted on the DVS Blog as well as Canvas. Please reach out to Ms. Marquez, College and Career Counselor, with any follow-up questions.

Week 8 Schedule (10/7-10/13):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Tuesday-Wednesday, 10/08-10/09: 9th Grade Overnighter @ Camp Pondo
Friday, 10/11 Community Learning Day
Monday, 10/14 SAT/PSAT School Day
Monday-Thursday, 10/14-10/17 Student-Led Conferences (SLCs)
Thursday, 10/17 Great California Shakeout @ 10:17am
Friday, 10/18 Honors Commitment Deadline
Friday, 11/1 PD Day, No School for students
Friday, 11/8 CLD Day #2
Monday, 11/11 Veteran’s Day- No School
Tuesday, 11/12 AMC Math Test
Thanksgiving Break 11/25-11/29

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

Advanced Physics field trip to Del Aire Park to collect data for Westy’s World Playground Project

Biomed student trying to save Mr. Perez by stopping the bleed!

Juniors working on Reconstruction DBQ. Working in groups to respond t to the statement: “To what extent was Reconstruction successful at improving the lives of African Americans?”

Amazing Hispanic Heritage Month display made by students from the Leadership Team and Latin American Crafts Seminar

Posted in Uncategorized

Week 7 Schedule

Posted on September 27, 2024 by Grace Long

As usual, DVS had an eventful and busy week! 11th graders had an informative time at NACAC’s College Fair at the LA Convention Center. Over 1800 colleges and universities were represented, and our students had a great time asking questions and checking out different college booths. Counselors also continued to offer college planning workshops for 10th and 11th-grade students. This is the season for seniors going through the application process and all grade levels to explore and plan for post-secondary options.

Students in the Biomedical Pathway also had the opportunity to visit Loma Linda University. Students took a field trip, toured the high-tech bio simulation lab, and engaged in lectures and an interactive cadaver lab tour. Through Monday’s Blood Drive, many lives were saved through our collaboration with UCLA Health.

Clubs have officially started, and it’s been great to see students pursuing their interests and having fun together during lunch and after school.

Due to School Holiday, there will be no school this Friday, Oct. 4th.

Announcements & Reminders for Week 7:

Community Learning Days– Our first CLD Day is coming up Oct. 11th. This week, all students were given a new student survey to fill out. The survey asks students whether they plan to plan to have their learning experience on campus or off campus. If students select the off-campus option, a CLD Off-Campus Permission Slip must be signed by parent/guardian and turned in to the Advisory teacher (students were provided a copy of this permission slip during Advisory this week). All students will need to fill out an attendance form to receive attendance credit for that day.
- Student Community Learning Day Survey
- CLD Off-Campus Permission Slip
College Planning Information Sessions continue into Week 7! We welcome 12th grade families on Wednesday, October 2nd. Come learn more about solidifying your college list, the college application process, financial aid applications and more! This meeting is from 5:30pm-6:30pm and held on the DVS floor. Click here to reserve your spot!
College Rep Visits: All college rep visits happen during lunch time in Mr. Perez’s Room. Students of all grade levels (9-12) are welcome. College Rep Visits for Week 7:

Monday, 9/30: CSU Dominguez Hills
Tuesday, 10/1: Cal Tech
Wednesday, 10/2: Syracuse University
Thursday, 10/3: UC Merced

AMC Math Competition: DVS will be administering the American Mathematics Competition (AMC) 10 and 12 on Tuesday, November 12th 3pm-5pm (during seminar and after school) to those who sign up. The AMC 10/12 are both 25-question, 75-minute, multiple-choice examinations in high school. Find out more at this link: https://maa.org/student-programs/amc/ Interested students should sign up via this form by 9:00am on Monday, September 30th (DV Google account required). For questions, contact Saya at swai@davincischools.org.
DVS Family Coffee Time: Every first Wednesday of the month, we will have an open “Coffee Time” where parents, guardians, and students can drop in to ask administration and staff questions and receive updates on school happenings. This week’s DVS Families Coffee Time will be held on Wednesday, October 2nd, from 4:15-5:15 using this Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/3108950461

Week 7 Schedule (9/30-10/4):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Wednesday, 10/02: DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:15pm
Wednesday, 10/02: 12th Grade College Planning Info Session
Friday, 10/04: No School – School Holiday
Tuesday-Wednesday, 10/08-10/09: 9th Grade Overnighter @ Camp Pondo
Friday, 10/11 Community Learning Day
Monday, 10/14 SAT/PSAT School Day
Monday-Thursday, 10/14-10/17 Student-Led Conferences (SLCs)
Thursday, 10/17 Great California Shakeout @ 10:17am
Friday, 10/18 Honors Commitment Deadline
Friday, 11/1 PD Day, No School for students

Helpful Links:

Some Highlights from the Week:

: Macromolecule Lab in Biology Class

: World History Pandemic Team Debate Winners

: Table Tennis Club

: Unsolved Mysteries Club

: Unsolved Mysteries Club

: BioMed Pathway Loma Linda University Field Trip

: 11th Grade NACAC College Fair

Posted in Uncategorized

Week 6 Schedule

Posted on September 20, 2024 by Grace Long

We had a wonderful week! The students did a great job and had a great time at the Club Fair. We encourage students to join clubs and to be engaged with the school community while pursuing their interests. Check out our Club Website for more information.

Announcements & Reminders for Week 6:

DVS Parent Advisory Committee: The first PAC meeting of this year is next Wednesday, September 25th 4:15-5:15 at this Zoom link. Parent Advisory Committee is an opportunity for parents, students, and staff to work collaboratively to review the school program, review data, identify needs, and make recommendations for the Local Control and Accountability Plan. If you are interested in joining our DVS Parent Advisory Committee, please complete the Parent Advisory Committee Interest Form. PAC Meeting Dates are planned for Wednesdays on Zoom from 4:15-5:15pm on these dates: 9/25, 11/20, 2/12, 3/26, 5/14.
DVS Parent Association: The DVS Parent Association was formed last year to create and build a strong parent community that supports the needs of the school as directed by the school administration. We are excited about the new projects we plan to bring to our community this school year. Our goal is to have at least one parent from each advisory group participating in the DVSPA meetings/projects. Could that be you? Everyone is encouraged to get involved and there is nothing formal you need to do to “join.” We will meet once a month, alternating between in person and on Zoom. Questions or to express interest in helping lead the DVSPA can be directed to parent Lori Bowker at lj.bowk@gmail.com. Come connect with other DVS parents at our first meeting of the year to learn more about this year’s projects and ways you can be more involved in the DVS community on Wednesday, 10/16, 4:30pm in person (after SLCs).
South Bay Families Connected: SBFC is a great resource for our families: “SBFC’s mission is to improve K-12 students’ social-emotional wellness. We do this by connecting parents, guardians, and teens with valuable resources, education, and support, as well as reducing stigma around mental health issues and sparking conversations that inspire people to reach out for help when they need it.” Check out South Bay Families Connected Events Calendar
PSAT/SAT School Day: The DVS PSAT/SAT School Day is on Monday, October 14th. All PSAT and SAT tests will be digitally administered.
- 9th Grade: PSAT 8/9
- 10th Grade: PSAT/NMSQT
- 11th Grade: PSAT/NMSQT
- 12th Grade: Opt-in to take the SAT (opt-in form posted on Canvas)

11th-grade students interested in taking the SAT instead of the PSAT/NMSQT should reach out to Saya (swai@davincischools.org) by Monday, September 30th, 2024.
Remember that you can also register to take the SAT outside of the SAT School Day offered at DVS. Register through the College Board at this website: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration

College Planning Information Sessions continue into Week 6! We welcome 10th-grade families on Tuesday, September 24th, and 11th-grade families on Thursday, September 26th. Come learn more about college and career readiness, graduation requirements, college admissions tips and more! Meetings are from 5:30pm-6:30pm and are held on the DVS floor. Click here to reserve your spot!
Freshmen Overnighter: Overnighter has been rescheduled for October 8-9th. All students should have received a new permission slip from the English class. Please have new permission slips signed and returned by October 2nd.
College Rep Visits: All college rep visits happen during lunch time in Mr. Perez’s Room. Students of all grade levels (9-12) are welcome. College Rep Visits for Week 6:
- Monday, 9/23: United States Air Force

Week 6 Schedule (9/23-9/27):

Important Upcoming Dates:

Monday, 9/23: UCLA Blood Drive
Tuesday, 9/24: 10th Grade College Planning Info Session @ 5:30pm
Tuesday, 9/24: Picture Make-Up Day
Wednesday, 9/25: 11th Grade NACAC College Fair Field Trip in Los Angeles
Wednesday, 9/25: Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Meeting #1 @ 4:15pm on Zoom
Thursday, 9/26: 11th Grade College Planning Info Session @ 5:30pm
Wednesday, 10/02: DVS Families Coffee Time @ 4:15pm
Wednesday, 10/02: 12th Grade College Planning Info Session
Tuesday-Wednesday, 10/08-10/09: 9th Grade Overnighter @ Camp Pondo
Friday, 10/11: CLD Day

Helpful Links: